Christmas is just around the corner. In a lot of homes gifts are piled high beneath a Christmas tree, which is displayed for everyone to see.

Why not display a beautifully decorated tree?

However, displaying the presents could be a neon “open” sign for burglars and thieves.

Sure a lot of good people, who would never still, will admire you tree, but a lot of people who would break-in your home will see the presents too.

It’s a good idea to keep the presents out of view because a criminal isn’t likely to go searching through your house for Christmas presents. They will however break a window or kick-in a door to make a quick grab at whatever is under the tree.

Later in the week the Selma Times-Journal will offer more tips to keep you, your loved ones, your home and your vehicle safe throughout the holiday season. Representatives from the Selma Police Department and the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department offered their tips for post Christmas safety. The tips are good year around, but are especially great for this part of the year.

Drawing your curtains or not putting presents under the tree may take away from the decorative part of Christmas, but it could keep your home from being burglarized.